If you have children with a former spouse, you will likely receive an order to support them financially until they reach the age of majority. However, a South Carolina judge may have leeway to modify the terms of a child support order. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you might want to seek a modification.
You lost your job
Your income is one of the most important factors used to determine your monthly support obligation. If you lose your job, it will likely result in a significant loss of income. Ultimately, a judge may agree to reduce the amount that you pay to your child’s other parent.
You incurred a significant medical expense
Let’s say that you were diagnosed with cancer, broke your leg or incurred a large medical expense for some other reason. In such a scenario, adhering to an existing child support order might create an undue financial burden. A court may seek to relieve that burden by allowing you to make partial payments until you are financially stable again.
The custodial parent has received a large inheritance
If the child’s custodial parent receives a lump sum of money from a friend, family member or another source, it may be grounds to change a child support agreement. This is because he or she will be better able to cover the cost of raising a child without outside assistance.
It’s important to note that a custodial parent may be entitled to additional support if you were to receive an inheritance, gift or raise at work. A family law professional may be able to provide more guidance as to how an increase to either parent’s net worth impacts his or her responsibility to a son or daughter.
If your circumstances have changed significantly since a child support order was first issued, it may be possible to have it adjusted. An attorney may be able to explain the process of modifying a court order and the importance of complying with the existing one until a judge changes it.